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A great honour to be here says VC hero

MILITARY hero Johnson Beharry described Whitehaven’s Freedom parade as “emotional” as he joined with our community to honour the armed forces.

HONOUR: Lance Sgt Johnson Beharry VC meets Ray Devlin

Lance Sergeant Beharry was a guest of honour at Tuesday’s event.

He said: “It’s great to see the turnout. The kids were amazing with all their flags. It’s great that they are here to be able to ask questions and see what their ancestors did for them.

“World War One is part of history, but events like this are not just about learning about history – it’s about knowing who your ancestors are.

“Being here has made me quite emotional. It’s a great honour to be here.”

He added: “Whitehaven is an amazing place and the parade has been amazing too. It’s great to remember the past but also look forward to the future.”

L Sgt Beharry of the 1st Battalion, Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment was awarded the Victoria Cross – the highest military award for bravery in the British Armed Forces – for twice saving his comrades from ambushes in Iraq in 2004. He has also served in Northern Ireland and Iraq.

The 34-year-old says he will be attending a host of events like this over the coming year to mark the centenary of World War One.

He is also busy with his charity which aims to provide opportunities for young people.

He said: “My main focus is teenagers. They are our future, they are our next leaders.”